New bitcoin scam circulating around Ontario

Greater Sudbury Police Service says there is currently a bitcoin email scam making its way across Ontario.

It has received several complaints from people who say they have received emails demanding payment through a form of electronic cash.

Cyber criminals are attempting to extort money from unsuspecting victims by claiming to have stolen their password, hacked computers and webcams, and threaten to expose compromising pictures and/or videos if not paid immediately.

Email subject matter may vary, but have similar characteristics.

Police say to look for the following:

• Subject line includes a password that you may have previously used or currently use

• Sender claims they have used that password to hack your computer, install malware, and record video of you through your webcam

• Sender says they will send video of you to your contacts unless you send them bitcoin. Most often this demand varies from $1,200 or $1,600 worth.

The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre advises consumers to not open unsolicited emails or ones from unknown senders.

Police also advise to not respond to these types of emails and never send the person money or bitcoin.

If you believe you have received these types of emails, please contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and report it.

If you have been victimized by an email scam and are being extorted and are in the Greater Sudbury area, call the non-emergent line at 705-675-9171.